We often get the same questions asked by parents, so we’ve created this handy page with all the questions you need to know. Simply click on the question you want to know more about.
Alternatively, you can find some really useful information on our blog and news section.
General Questions
What days and times do you open and close?
How many sessions does my child have to attend?
How old does my child need to be to start?
Do you take children in nappies?
What if my child is ill?
When are the holidays?
Does my child need to bring in a packed lunch?
What do I need to do in order for my child to start?
Where can I find your recent Ofsted reports?
Funding Questions
How does the Early Years Funding work?
Do you accept 30 hours funding?
Do you accept child care vouchers?
Can I split my child’s funding between two settings?
Can I increase the number of sessions when my funding starts?
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What days and times do you open and close?
We are open 4 days a week: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, 9am to 3.15pm. Wednesday afternoons are a dedicated Forest-Inspired School session outdoors. We are closed on Thursdays.
Our morning sessions run 9am until 1pm, and include time for children to eat their packed lunch. Our afternoon sessions are 12pm until 3.15pm. Sessions cost £22 for children aged 2 and £18 for children aged 3 and 4.
If you want your child to attend for the full day (9am until 3.15pm), sessions cost £34.38 for children aged 2 and £28.13 for children aged 3 and 4.
You will not be charged during the school holidays.
How many sessions does my child have to attend?
Your child can attend for one or more sessions depending on your needs.
How old does my child need to be to start?
Your child can start from 2 years of age.
Do you take children in nappies?
Yes we do. We work with parents towards toilet training.
What if my child is ill?
If your child has a general illness, such as a cold, and they’re well enough to come to pre-school, then it’s fine for them to attend. However, if they have a high temperature, sickness/diarrhoea or an illness like chicken pox, then we recommend they stay at home until their symptoms clear up.
When are the holidays?
We mostly mirror school term times and holidays. Please see the Term Dates page for the current dates.
Does my child need to bring in a packed lunch?
Yes, children need to bring a packed lunch with them in a named lunch box. We ask that in times of hot weather, ice packs are used inside lunch boxes to keep the food cold. Please keep your lunches healthy.
What do I need to do in order for my child to start?
You will need to complete a new starter pack. Please request a pack by email from dodlestonpreschool@googlemail.com. This has all the paperwork you need to register your child. Once the registration forms are completed, please return them to us with a £10 non-refundable deposit and a place will be reserved for your child.
Where can I find your recent Ofsted reports?
In June 2019, we received an Ofsted report with a ‘Good’ rating. You can find our most recent reports as well as historical inspection results here.
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How does the Early Years Funding work?
We now offer funded places for 2 year olds. Please contact your local children’s centre for more information.
Funding for children aged 3 and 4 is universally available. You are able to access funding for your child the term after their 3rd birthday. For example, if your child turns 3 between September and December, their funding will begin in January.
Should you wish to leave the setting after the funding is allocated you must fit into the category of exceptional circumstances.
Do you accept 30 hours funding?
Yes, we do accept the extended funding. You will need to apply for this funding online and meet the relevant criteria. We will then need your 30 hours offer code to access your funding. We also accept Welsh extended funding.
Do you accept child care vouchers?
Yes, we do accept child care vouchers.
Can I split my child’s funding between two settings?
The funding that you receive can be split between two settings should you wish to do this.
Can I increase the number of sessions when my funding starts?
Yes, if we have capacity to increase sessions, then we will be able to accommodate you. Please let us know in advance if you wish for your child to increase their sessions. Speak to our manager Lyndsey or any member of staff. Please note, places are reserved on a first-come-first-served basis.